[Life after college is hard. Like really hard. But it's not so hard that you should curl up in a ball and watch E! marathons all day long. Not only are we covering the experience from a first-hand perspective, but we're now covering it from a how-to-survive-it perspective. Every week, we're going to bringing the best advice to getting through your first post-grad year. Because sometimes, your grandmother's "just go to law school" advice just doesn't cut it.]

You’ve recently graduated, congrats! You’ve been living for the past four years in a furnished dorm or a sorority house with all your friends or maybe even an off-campus house you had all to yourself with your best friends in the world! Maybe your parents paid? Maybe your loans paid? Or maybe you were able to pay from your awesome internship the summer leading up? Whatever the case, you had a place to live — even when there were dishes piling so high you had to wash them in the tub or you had so much laundry you thought about buying new underwear before attempting to wash it all – you had it made!

I’m two years out of college (Lehigh ’09) and have lived in four different cities since I graduated, but that’s not all, I’ve moved 12 times since I packed up my geo prism and hugged my college friends goodbye and headed home to upstate NY. I’ve not only lived in upstate NY these past two years, but also in London, Washington, DC and New York City. I’m actually lucky – each time I took one of these journeys it was for an amazing opportunity and job, a move that ultimately landed me in New York City with an awesome gig working in social media at an education start-up!

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As an intern, you will meet a lot of new people. Depending on where you’re interning and what field the business is in, the type of people you meet will vary; however there are five people you will meet no matter where you intern:

1. The Mom. The first person you’ll meet is the “mom.” From day one, she’ll take you under her wing, show you the ropes and be your biggest fan. She’ll cheer you on throughout your internship and offer her condolences if you screw up and, just like your real mom, she’ll be there to tell you everything will be okay.

2. The Spy. The second person you will meet is the “spy.” The spy is someone who sits close in proximity to you, close enough that they can watch your every move. They will listen in on your phone calls, monitor what is on your computer screen and report every mistake to your supervisor. Read More »

[This summer a dream internship with Lucky magazine moved me from Austin, Texas, where I’ve spent all 21 years of my life, to New York City for the summer. Come along for the ride and follow me through this column as I take on all that the city has in store for me. I’ll share tips I’ve picked up along the way about everything from how to pack (stop, drop and roll people!) to dating to fitting in (or standing out) and so much more.]

A little over a month in the city and just when I feel like slowly but surely the things on my mental to-do-in-New-York list are being crossed off, I think of yet another “must-see” city sight.

Tip #19 – Make a list of the things you want to do before you leave the city. No, actually write it down.

Some of the things topping my list right now are visiting the top of the Empire State building, scoring tickets to Shakespeare In The Park and tracking down the famous Carrie Bradshaw walk-up apartment steps. Writing down my New York wish list (in pink gel pen) as cheesy as it feels really is the best way to ensure you experience everything you hoped to. I tucked my list in my wallet and when I had a few hours to kill a few days ago, I pulled it out and luckily a gelato place recommended by a friend was just a quick subway ride away. The last thing I want is head back home at the end of the summer and kick myself for not having done something so quintessentially New York as going to the Statue of Liberty. Sidebar: Most of the things of your list also make great first dates with a new guy you meet. Read More »

[Life after college is hard. Like really hard. But it's not so hard that you should curl up in a ball and watch E! marathons all day long. Not only are we covering the experience from a first-hand perspective, but we're now covering it from a how-to-survive-it perspective. Every week, we're going to bringing the best advice to getting through your first post-grad year. Because sometimes, your grandmother's "just go to law school" advice just doesn't cut it.]

Choosing a roommate in college was easy. Your best friend, duh. But choosing your real world roommate gets a little trickier. Why? Because you’re an adult now and you need a roommate who acts like an adult. And sometimes, your very best friend doesn’t always act like one– and there’s more than your sleep and study space at stake now, it’s important things like your credit.

So how do you choose a good roommate and start off your grown up living situation on the right foot? Follow these guidelines and you’ll be living fight-free!

1. Discuss Money: Not to say money isn’t an issue in college, but it’s definitely not as much of an issue. There was one “nice” restaurant near my college campus and that meant the meals were $11 total. But in NYC, where I currently live, meals can range from $1 to $1000. Suddenly  money means a lot more and you need to discuss what you’re comfortable spending with your roommate. Give your roommate an idea of how much you’re making. Chances are that if she makes more, she’ll be comfortable spending more on things like rent, shared groceries, apartment cleaning, cable plans etc. Let her know off the bat how much you are willing to spend each month on the basics. Maybe you should buy your own groceries. Perhaps you should pro-rate the bedrooms depending on size. There are lots of options for living  on varied salaries within the same apartment, but if you don’t discuss it beforehand, things can get awkward. No it’s not a fun conversation, but it’s much better to have it before you start fighting over buying organic peanut butter. Read More »

[Life after college is hard. Like really hard. But it's not so hard that you should curl up in a ball and watch E! marathons all day long. Not only are we covering the experience from a first-hand perspective, but we're now covering it from a how-to-survive-it perspective. Every week, we're going to bringing the best advice to getting through your first post-grad year. Because sometimes, your grandmother's "just go to law school" advice just doesn't cut it.]

Life in college was pretty carefree. For the most part your friends were happy and full of laughter and smiles and funny stories. Sure there were always those times when you had to console a friends  over a break-up or you had to rub another friend’s back when she failed out of orgo and realized she’ll never be a doctor. But those were minor setbacks.

Then you graduate and everyone’s mood takes a turn for the worse. You’re jealous of that friend who got a job before you (I mean, c’mon, you had 19 internships, and she spent her summers at the beach) and you’re angry about living at home,  and you’re lonely because all your friends are miles away. Relatives and strangers remind you everyday that the economy sucks and you start reading the news and you realize we’re at war with 19 countries and that people are trying to outlaw abortion.  And you get this feeling of overwhelming depression. Like, wow, life sucks.

The worst part is that you’re not the only one in this downward spiral of sadness. All your friends are too. Everyone is lonely and depressed and confused and upset. Gchat convos that used to be about Glee and sexting do’s and don’ts are suddenly about rejected resumes and big life questions.  Everyone’s depression feeds off each other and before you know it, your once fun group of galpals is like a support group for angry people.

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[Life after college is hard. Like really hard. But it's not so hard that you should curl up in a ball and watch E! marathons all day long. Not only are we covering the experience from a first-hand perspective, but we're now covering it from a how-to-survive-it perspective. Every week, we're going to bringing the best advice to getting through your first post-grad year. Because sometimes, your grandmother's "just go to law school" advice just doesn't cut it.]

So we’ve covered a lot of Real World bases in this column. From what to wear on an interview, to how to search for a job…even what to expect socially in the workplace. But one thing I’ve noticed in reading through all of your comments is that you guys want a little help navigating the really tough scenarios. A rude interviewer, the “no wrong answer” questions (hint: there is a wrong answer), proper etiquette for group interviews…your basic iffy and unexpected situations.

How Rude!
So you walk into an interview all smiles and positive thoughts, when suddenly you’re confronted with the coldest, most non-feeling person in the world. And they’re the one who’s going to be asking the questions. Lucky you.

You try to act breezy and light, they stare you down and create awkward silences. You straight-talk your accomplishments and strengths, they’re unimpressed. You ask intelligent questions about the company and the position, they cut you off before you can finish.

What’s the smartest approach when confronted with a major grump? Realize it’s most likely their problem, not a personal grudge against you. I would bet money that either a) they have their eye on another candidate and are frustrated that a higher-up is still insisting on continuing the search; b) it wasn’t their job to interview you, but they were forced into the situation; or c) simply put- they’re having a bad day.

Now, none of those reasons justify someone being rude to you, but it does help you handle the situation. Continue answering questions and talking about your accomplishments respectfully and confidently…and don’t forget to send a thank you note!

This…is…not…what I…expected.
I once went on an interview to write at a reputable entertainment website and found myself at a sketchy apartment in the middle of Brooklyn. The “editor” of the site was not quite the guy he painted himself to be- it wasn’t even his apartment, he was…uh…temporarily homeless. After two rigorous and bizarre hours of talking (anyone got tips on how to politely tell your interviewer to shut up!?), he offered me the position to come join his “team”. Uhhh…

When something doesn’t turn out exactly as you envisioned it, take a moment to weigh the pros and cons. It’s easy to get guilted into accepting a position you don’t want, or to say no too quickly to one you might unexpectedly enjoy.

In my case, I decided to politely decline the offer. But trust it wasn’t without some serious consideration. (Okay, fine. So “consideration” translates to making fun of the weirdness with my friends over a venti Starbucks and still thinking WTF days after. Don’t be like me!!)

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
The ultimate open-ended question, you will be heavily judged on your answer. Potential employers don’t want to hear about your dream of owning a house in the ‘burbs, bowing out of your career by age 30 to play housewife and popping out cute kids.

Here’s the almost foolproof phrase I’ve memorized: At this point in my life, I’d love to join a company that offers opportunity for career growth. Hopefully in 10 years I can be part of a team that has watched me develop professionally, one that understands my strengths and can help me position myself and my coworkers for success.

The concepts of “career growth” and “career paths” within the same company are way popular. It’s less work for employers if they think you’re going to be sticking with them for the long haul. Think of yourself as a long-term investment.

Over-qualification, my ass.
Chances are most of you have been there, even as brand spankin’ new grads applying for entry-level positions. Somehow you’re overqualified. Yeah, between working part-time at Ann Taylor and interning for your town paper you’ve acquired too many skills to perform 80% of the jobs you apply for.

When you find yourself trying to convince someone you’re not as qualified as they think (trust me, it’ll happen)- stop. Take a different approach. Talk about how you’re confident the position will provide fresh challenges. Mention how you’ve worked in similar positions before and proven yourself an asset to different companies. Give examples.

Bitch, they didn’t ask you!
Oh, the group interview. How I hate thee. Is there a more awkward situation anywhere in life? Actually, don’t answer that. But the group interview still ranks pretty high up there!

Often times you’re asked a question and someone else’s cutting you off to give their unsolicited answer. Puh-lease! While it’s easy to curse under your breath at the absolute lack of manners in the room, remember it’s an interview and therefore it’s every man for him/herself.

Be patient and you’ll get your chance for classy payback. If you see an opportunity to add on to another candidate’s answer, wait for them to finish, then politely ask if you may speak about one of your own related experiences. Speak clearly and keep your comment concise. You’ll be heard and won’t have people annoyed at your for hijacking the spotlight with longwinded stories.

[Life after college is hard. Like really hard. But it's not so hard that you should curl up in a ball and watch E! marathons all day long. Not only are we covering the experience from a first-hand perspective, but we're now covering it from a how-to-survive-it perspective. Every week, we're going to bringing the best advice to getting through your first post-grad year. Because sometimes, your grandmother's "just go to law school" advice just doesn't cut it.]

When I sat in the back row of my college lecture classes, wearing sweats and a free homecoming t-shirt, I day dreamed abotu office life. How I would waltz into the office in the latest J.Crew line, exchange pleasantries with my co-workers, and eat lunch with a charming male co-worker who plays footsie with me at company meetings.

And then I got a job that popped my J.Crew bubble.

Real office life is nothing like I imagined — and the more I spoke with all my other newly-employed friends, I realized that office life wasn’t matching up to anyone’s expectations.  Remember that bitchy girl in middle school who always gave you fake compliments then made fun of you behind your back? Yeah, she works in accounting. Remember that trying-too-hard-to-be-funny freshman in your anthro class? Yep, he’s at the desk next to you. And your freshman year roommate who way overshared the most intimate things? She’s still oversharing, except now she’s doing it loudly on her cellphone when the office is completely silent.

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If you don’t have an internship by now, you’re probably checking your inbox every five seconds waiting to hear some good news. Though it’s discouraging, all hope isn’t lost. Internships are a dime a dozen, from the smallest county newspapers to the biggest magazines in Manhattan. With a little persistence and a lot of patience, scoring a last-minute internship is totally doable.

Do your Research

If you haven’t created a profile on Internships.com or subscribed to Ed2010.com’s RSS feeds, do that right now. These websites have the inside scoops to the latest postings. Sending your resume when you’re ready to submit won’t get the job done. The trick is to submit your application at peak points of the day—early in the morning and before the lunch time rush. If you send it at the end of the day (or even worse, the end of Friday), hiring managers are less likely to look closely. It’s like when your professor starts saying something REALLY important with 3 minutes left in class. You and I both know that no one is listening. (Check out other job hunting mistakes right here)

School Connections

Visit your school’s Office of Career Development or the Career Services Center, every college’s center has a different name, but these centers have awesome resource to find internships. The professionals there can usually help you spruce up your uber-important resume and cover letter, too.

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[Life after college is hard. Like really hard. But it's not so hard that you should curl up in a ball and watch E! marathons all day long. Not only are we covering the experience from a first-hand perspective, but we're now covering it from a how-to-survive-it perspective. Every week, we're going to bringing the best advice to getting through your first post-grad year. Because sometimes, your grandmother's "just go to law school" advice just doesn't cut it.]

Ladies, let’s be real: finding a job is tough stuff. Before you get to sending those resumes out, before you worry about which job-related websites to start checking religiously, make sure you’ve got your basics covered. After all, what’s that they say about a good foundation being the key to a solid…something or other? It’s not just a nice platitude that encourages you to order an extra basket of nachos before a night of heavy drinking. This common sense can also be applied to…wait for it…matters of the Real World.

So what, you ask, are the key ingredients to kick of a successful job hunt? As someone who has been in and out of job interviews at the same rate that LiLo checks in and out of rehab, trust me when I say preparation is everything. And to ensure that you are prepped like none other, I present to you the ultimate job search checklist:

The Outfit
You want to come off confident and capable, but not overtly sexy or worse — dowdy. Try not to over think this one, as you might easily find yourself standing naked in front of your closet, tossing outfit after outfit on the floor. Remember it’s best to stick to the timeless elements of a successful casual-but-not-too-casual/dressy-but-not-too-dressy ensemble.

Grab some well-fitting black pants (nothing wide-leg, nothing wool, nothing pinstripe) like these hip-yet-professional skinny pants from The Gap, pair them with a bright silky top, toss a cardigan on top and add in an edited selection of accessories. Easy as pie! And don’t be afraid to drop a little extra cash on your interview look– you’ll get plenty of wear of out it, and you can later translate the various pieces into different office-ready outfits when the time comes. (For more in-depth advice, check out which color is best to wear at an interview)

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Whether you’re graduating this spring or you’re hunting for a summer internship, you’re probably stressed about acing your interviews. To help alleviate some of that stress, we reached out to the experts from Excelle and asked them for their tips on making a great first impression. Check back every Thursday for more helpful career tips and articles!

BEWARE: Job seekers aren’t the only ones who sometimes get creative when it comes to selling themselves (i.e. resumes and cover letters that have been, shall we say, “tweaked” to make a person look like the ideal candidate). Some employers have a tendency to use verbiage that makes their open positions sound better than they really are.

Over the years, I’ve noticed some popular job descriptors that should be viewed as warning flags a potential employer might be trying to put an overly optimistic spin on a less-than-stellar work situation. Thus, when reading the want-ads, consider the following translations:

Motivated team-player – looking for someone who needs a job badly enough that they’ll put up with lots of unmotivated, annoying people from whom you’ll have to get buy-in on almost everything you do.

High achiever, driven to succeed – must be a complete brown-nose whose sole mission in life is to please and impress management.

Customer-focused – can take a lot of abuse from clients AND management and still act pleasant.

Resourceful, independent self-starter – since we have absolutely no time or resources to train you, we expect you to figure everything out for yourself…quickly.

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